Planning rules can make or break a French renovation. So, in this episode, we unpack how planning permits in France actually work, why the mairie should always be your first stop - and what can go wrong if it isn’t!

If you’re renovating (or thinking about buying) property in France, this episode will help you avoid expensive mistakes, delays and legal headaches.

We’ve also pulled the key concepts, definitions and resources together in written form on our website, so you can revisit the details whenever you need to.

*** www.frenchrenodiaries.com ***

Resources mentioned in the episode

• Service-Public – Official French government guidance on planning and permits
• Local mairie – First point of contact for planning rules and applications
• PLU (Plan Local d’Urbanisme) – Local planning framework for each commune
• Géoportail – National mapping tool showing zoning, flood risk and boundaries

Mini glossary: French planning terms

• PLU (Plan Local d’Urbanisme) – Local planning rules set by the commune
• Déclaration Préalable (DP) – Simplified planning permission for certain works
• Permis de Construire – Full planning permission for larger projects
• Certificat d’Urbanisme (CU) – Document confirming development rights
• Bâtiments de France (ABF) – Authority overseeing protected and historic areas
• Affichage de permis – Mandatory on-site display of planning approval

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Email: frenchrenodiaries@gmail.com

Find out more about us and our French reno businesses:

Maison Bretagne (Rosie Ellis)

S.R. Charpenterie (Sue Peake-Russell)

Paul Wilkins Electricien (Micala Wilkins)

Credits:

• Produced & mixed by: Katy Wright
• Music: Grand Project